Day 29 - Lent 2026

EMBRACING SACRIFICIAL LOVE

Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross. Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11 and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:5–11 

In the work of caring for others whether in ministry, social work or simply walking alongside people in their struggles, we often witness moments that remind us what love really looks like.

I remember sitting with a student who was having one of the hardest days of their young life. They were frustrated, overwhelmed, and carrying burdens much heavier than a child should have to carry. They didn’t need a lecture, and they didn’t need discipline at that moment. What they needed was someone willing to sit beside them, to listen, to understand, and to remind them that they mattered.

So I just sat there quietly for a moment and slowly their shoulders began to relax.

Sometimes love shows up quietly.  Sometimes it shows up in patience.  And sometimes it simply shows up in presence.

Love doesn’t always look like grand gestures.  Sometimes love looks like sitting beside someone when they’re hurting and listening when they feel unheard…

Those moments remind me of what Paul writes in Philippians 2:5–11 - that Christ showed us a love so powerful, He was willing to lower Himself so that others could be lifted.

And perhaps that is the invitation of Lent for all of us: to love in a way that is willing to kneel, so that someone else can stand.

Let us pray:

Gracious and loving God, we thank You for the example of Christ, who showed us what true love looks like - humble, selfless, and sacrificial. In a world that often encourages us to seek power and recognition, remind us that the greatest strength is found in serving others.

Lord, give us the mind of Christ. Teach us to walk with compassion, to listen with patience and to stand beside those who are hurting or overlooked. Help us to set aside pride, control and comfort when they prevent us from loving as You have called us to love.

During this Lenten season, shape our hearts so that our lives reflect Your grace. May our words bring encouragement, our actions bring healing and our presence remind others that they are seen, valued, and loved.

And as we embrace sacrificial love, may we become instruments of Your peace in the lives of those we serve.  In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

SUBMITTED BY SIS. DONNETTE WILLIAMS